Brad Barnes

I’m talking about relaxed city centre restaurants of course - with Bill’s opening this week hot on the heels of Argo Lounge just before Christmas.

Opening of Bill's restaurant in Church Street, Peterborough. EMN-150902-152356009

They both have that funky industrial chic feel about them and offer an eclectic - make that eccentric - collection of seating, tables, fixtures and fittings.

Bill’s, which opened on Monday (8 February) in Church Street - facing St John Church and seats more than 100 - is perhaps a little more rustic, with lots of bare wood on show. It even has its own little shop at the front - reflecting the origins of the chain.

The name might be unfamiliar to many - although there are now more than 50 Bill’s nationwide - but there was certainly a steady stream of customers on the opening lunchtime. And general manager Tom Charnock, who has openings manager Ben Taylor alongside him for the first couple of weeks of business, was certainly unflustered.

“It’s nice to see so many people coming through the doors on our first day here,” he said.

“Everything is quite relaxed and that is how we like it.

If people want to come in for a special occasion and have a meal and drinks that is great, but if others was to sit somewhere more comfortable, have a coffee and read the paper or use the free Wi-Fi then we are happy with that too. We want customers to feel welcome.”